Kale Buhl is an Austin, Texas native and transmission technician at Leif Johnson Ford, where he has worked since the age of 16 while still in high school, sharing and growing his passion for Ford and racing.

Currently competing in the Mustang Cup, Kale pilots the #8 Leif Johnson Ford Mustang Dark Horse R.

He built his racing foundation behind the wheel of his personal 2018 Mustang GT, progressing through track days and earning his SCCA full competition license while developing his skills with Rafa Racing and Capaldi Racing.

Since making his wheel-to-wheel debut in 2025, Kale has quickly established himself as a rising talent, finishing 2nd overall in both the Miles Cup and Parnelli Cup.

Leif Johnson has been in business for over 65 years. We are a family-owned and operated business with 3 Ford franchise dealerships and 3 pre-owned locations in and around Austin, as well as Chevrolet, GMC and CDJR franchises in Monahans, TX.  We pride ourselves in offering a no hassle and family-oriented atmosphere. Whether you purchase a vehicle from us or not, we want to ensure that you leave our dealership feeling valued, comfortable, and listened to.

We are deeply committed to the Central and West Texas communities we serve.  Leif Johnson recognizes the importance of giving back and proudly partners with local charities, youth sports, and education and outreach programs.

“Mustang Dark Horse R bridges the gap between Dark Horse and Mustang GT3 and GT4. Production-based Mustang Vehicles have raced from the very beginning, all the way back to wining the 1964 Tour De France, even. Dar Horse R offers our passionate customers not just an attainable, factory-built race car, but also a racing series to compete with other mustang enthusiasts.”

- Mark Rushbrook, Global Director, Ford Racing